Time to Get Organized? Maybe Not!

Organization may not be all it's cracked up to be.

By FamilyTime

You've heard that a messy desk is the sign of a creative mind; a messy house is the sign that its inhabitants have better things to do than clean; a messy bedroom is the sign of a happy kid with lots of interests.

But is it true?

There is a backlash against organization afoot in the country. Forget about the booming home organization industry, with its plastic containers, file holders, closet dividers, and shoe bags. Too much organization results in wasted time, some experts say.

Organizing TimeThere's an old joke where two people are lounging in lawn chairs. The caption: "Next year we have to get organized!" This seems to be a common mantra for nearly everyone. As a nation we are obsessed with getting organized.

Getting rid of clutter, cleaning up piles of papers and magazines, storing toys, games, and athletic equipment, and stowing kitchen appliances under cabinets all fall into the category of home organization. And we all want an organized house, right?

Doing this once in a while is always a good thing, but if you don't have the committment to keep up with the organization, you may find yourself spending a lot of time repeating tasks. You will never feel organized.

And you will hate every minute of it!

Organization IQTake stock of your organization IQ. Are you someone who tolerates piles of mail on the kitchen counter and doesn't mind clearing off the dining room table when it's time for dinner? Or are you someone who feels nothing but stress when you see mess?

If you fall into the first category, don't worry too much about organization. If you fall into the second category, simple organizational tactics will help a lot.

Some people find they have more time for their families, hobbies, and leisure activities if their lives are well organized. Others find organizing eats into the time they need for these things.

Which are you? Whatever the answer, don't beat yourself up if you fall into one category and not the other. Too much rigidity is not good for any family, but a little order can't hurt.

As with most aspects of life, moderation is the best solution for most people.

Mess Versus DirtThere is a big difference between mess and dirt. No one thinks being unclean is a good idea, although if your house is too messy it can be tricky to clean in the corners.

Let your inner messy self shine through, if you feel it's more your style. But don't toss the vacuum cleaner into the landfill along with the hanging wall organizer. While your house does not need to be antiseptically clean, it should be free of grime and dust.

Cleanliness is good for your and your family's health. Plus, it makes everyone feel good -- even if it means finding wet towels in your kids' messy rooms after they have taken improbably long showers. At least they are clean, if not organized.